TOP 15 best paints for metal: rating 2024-2025 and which one is best to choose

The processing of metal products and structures involves the use of special type paints designed specifically for such surfaces.

The main functions of such paints are to protect the surface from high humidity, corrosion, sudden temperature changes and other aggressive environmental factors.

When choosing a paint for metal, you should consider what type of work the product is intended for (external or internal), the method of applying the composition (brush, roller or spray) and the time for complete drying.

To make it easier for you to choose, we have compiled a short list of parameters that you should pay attention to and a rating of the best paints for metal according to the 2024-2025 version in terms of price / quality.

Rating of the TOP 15 best paints for metal 2024-2025

Place	Name	Price
TOP 3 best paints for metal by price/quality for 2024-2025
1	MAXIMA	Ask for a price
2	Lacra MA-15	Ask for a price
3	Tikkurila Metallista	Ask for a price
TOP 3 best paints for metal for outdoor use
1	Novbytchim BT-177	Ask for a price
2	Tikkurila Panssarimaali	Ask for a price
3	Krafor MA–15	Ask for a price
TOP 3 best paints for metal for interior work
1	Hammerite	Ask for a price
2	Cossack MA-15	Ask for a price
3	PANZER	Ask for a price
TOP 3 best aerosol paints for metal
1	Eastbrand Monarca universal RAL	Ask for a price
2	Tytan Art of the color	Ask for a price
3	MOTIP Deco effect chrome lacquer chrome	Ask for a price
TOP 3 best paints for metal 3 in 1 for rust
1	ECODOM for rust 3-in-1	Ask for a price
2	Enamel KUDO for rust	Ask for a price
3	DALI for rust 3-in-1	Ask for a price

How to choose paint for metal and what to look for?

If you plan to paint metal products, you should choose paints that are designed specifically for such surfaces.

When choosing, pay attention to such parameters:

1. Purpose. It should be considered where the surfaces intended for processing are located, since there are separate tools for outdoor and indoor work.
2. The need for priming. Some compositions already have a primer in their composition, so the surface does not need to be pre-treated. As a rule, such products are more expensive than conventional enamels without a primer in the composition.
3. Application method. It depends on the viscosity. Paints with high viscosity are applied with a brush, with a medium viscosity - with a roller, and liquid emulsions are sprayed with a spray gun.
4. Drying time. This indicator is also usually indicated in the instructions. Quick-drying paints are more often used when carrying out outdoor work, when it is necessary that the paint layer dries quickly and dust does not appear on it.

In addition, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the expected frequency of coverage updates.It is desirable that the service life of the paint is 8-10 years without the appearance of cracks and other damage.

TOP 3 best paints for metal by price/quality for 2024-2025

High-quality metal paint does not have to be expensive. In the lines of many reliable brands there are compositions that provide high-quality painting of metal surfaces, but at the same time they are distinguished by affordable prices.

MAXIMA

Relatively inexpensive paint designed for processing metal surfaces.

It is made on Lacra MA-15 water-based, and the rubberized composition ensures uniform application.

The paint is universal, so it can be used for painting various surfaces, both indoors and outdoors..

For the manufacture of the emulsion, high-quality raw materials of domestic production are used, so the finished coating is fully adapted for operation in a temperate climate.

Another feature of the paint is its increased elasticity. Due to this, it is easily applied with a conventional brush or roller.

The finished coating is resistant to aggressive environmental factors, and since the emulsion does not have an unpleasant odor, painting work can be carried out even in rooms with poor ventilation.

Specifications:

• texture - matte;
• maximum consumption 250 g/sq.m;
• drying time 24 hours.

Lacra MA-15

Inexpensive oil paint based on natural linseed oil. Product versatile, therefore suitable for outdoor and indoor use.

In terms of scope, the emulsion is universal, since it can be used not only for painting metal, but also wooden surfaces.

The finished coating has increased resistance to aggressive environmental influences, so the paint layer will reliably protect the surface from dust and moisture..

In order for the coating to turn out to be of really high quality, before painting, the surface should be completely cleaned of rust, degreased with a solvent and coated with a primer.

If the surface was previously painted, the old layer of paint must be removed, the surface sanded and covered with drying oil.

Because the product has an oily consistency, it should be applied with a roller or brush.

Specifications:

• thinner - solvent;
• maximum consumption 10 kg/sq.m;
• drying time 24 hours.

Tikkurila Metallista

The production of this paint is carried out by a well-known and proven Finnish manufacturer.

The composition is evenly applied and provides reliable protection of surfaces from rust.

Another feature of the product is that the paint layer dries quickly.. Due to this, the time of painting work is reduced, even if it is necessary to apply several layers of paint. The manufacturer made sure that the painting work was carried out as quickly as possible.

With this paint, even rusty surfaces can be treated without pre-treatment and cleaning.

The composition of the emulsion already includes a primer, so it is not necessary to cover the surface with a primer layer.

Also in the composition of the product there are special components that increase the resistance of the coating to the adhesion of dirt and dust, and the surface becomes resistant to moisture and precipitation.

Specifications:

• texture - glossy;
• maximum consumption 13 l/sq.m;
• drying time 8 hours.

TOP 3 best paints for metal for outdoor use

If it is planned to paint metal surfaces located on the street, it is worth giving preference to special compositions that are resistant to the aggressive effects of atmospheric phenomena. Three compositions were recognized as the best paints for metal for outdoor work in 2024-2025.

Novbytchim BT-177

This paint is familiar to domestic consumers under the name "silver". She is differs in affordable cost and is primarily intended for painting metal products, but is also suitable for painting concrete surfaces.

The consistency of the emulsion is quite thick, so it can only be applied with a brush and roller.

If the paint seems too thick, it can be brought to the desired consistency with a common thinner.

One of the advantages of the product is the high drying speed, which is only 4 hours.

Given this feature, the surfaces can be painted in several layers, but at the same time, before applying the next layer, you must wait for the previous one to dry completely..

The paint is not recommended to be applied over oil or alkyd paints. If there is such a need, the layer of the old coating must be completely removed and the surface sanded.

Specifications:

• thinner - solvent;
• maximum consumption 130 g/sq.m;
• drying time 4 hours.

Tikkurila Panssarimaali

High-quality alkyd paint from a well-known Finnish manufacturer was specially Designed for outdoor painting.

In particular, it can be used for painting roofs, doors and other surfaces that are exposed to intense rainfall.

The composition of the paint includes a special anti-corrosion pigment that protects the treated surface from rain and melting snow..

The manufacturer's palette includes a rich selection of colors.

The consistency of the emulsion allows you to evenly apply paint on any metal surface.

The drying time is not the shortest, so it is better to carry out painting work in good weather.

After complete drying, the composition forms a beautiful semi-gloss coating, which well masks defects and surface irregularities, and pleasantly shines in the sun.

Specifications:

• texture - semi-gloss;
• maximum consumption 12 l/sq.m;
• drying time 24 hours.

Krafor MA–15

Oil paint was originally created for the treatment of exterior surfaces, but its can be used for interior work.

But it should be borne in mind that the emulsion has an unpleasant odor and dries slowly, so painting work can only be carried out in rooms with good ventilation.

The finished surface is glossy, so it does not mask defects and irregularities. Given this feature, the surface to be treated must be carefully prepared and cleaned.

The consistency of the paint is not too thick, so it can be applied not only with a brush or roller, but also with a sprayer.

If the paint residue has become too thick, you can dilute it to the desired consistency with a regular thinner..

The emulsion is presented in a huge color palette, which opens up a wide scope for using the composition when decorating external metal surfaces.

Specifications:

• texture - glossy;
• maximum consumption 220 g/sq.m;
• drying time 24 hours.

TOP 3 best paints for metal for interior work

For painting indoor metal surfaces, special paints are used that dry quickly and have a minimally unpleasant odor.

Hammerite

An inexpensive alkyd paint specially formulated for indoor painting jobs. works.

At the same time, it can also be used for outdoor work, because the emulsion contains a special component that protects the treated surfaces from rust.

The product also includes a primer, so the surface does not have to be pre-treated or cleaned.

If there is a need to paint a surface made of plastic or non-ferrous metals, this paint can also be used, but in this case you will have to apply a primer layer first.

Another feature of the emulsion is that it creates a coating that is resistant to rust and moisture..

Drying time is only 4 hours, so the product is suitable even for painting work, which involves the application of several layers of paint for the highest quality finish.

Specifications:

• texture - matte;
• maximum consumption 10 l/sq.m;
• drying time 4 hours.

Cossack MA-15

High-quality oil paint of domestic production is intended for application not only on metal, but also on wooden surfaces.

As a basis for manufacturing, high-quality drying oils made on the basis of vegetable oils are used.

In order for the paint layer to effectively resist moisture and atmospheric phenomena, and not crack over time, the surface to be treated must be properly prepared.

To do this, the surfaces are cleaned of the old layer of paint, wiped of dust and degreased..

The paint has a moderately thick consistency, it can be applied with a regular brush or roller.

Since the paint is oily, it has a characteristic unpleasant odor. When carrying out outdoor work, this does not play a special role, but when carrying out internal painting work, it is necessary to ensure high-quality ventilation of the room.

Specifications:

• texture - glossy;
• diluent type - solvent;
• drying time 24 hours.

PANZER

This paint for metal surfaces is absolutely deservedly called one of the the best on the market.

This high-tech product provides reliable protection of metal surfaces from rust and aggressive weather conditions.

The composition of the paint includes special components that smooth out surface irregularities, so there is no need to grind and level the metal before painting..

At the same time, for high-quality painting and long-term preservation of performance, the manufacturer recommends pre-cleaning the surface of dust and dirt, as well as degreasing it in any convenient way.

The consistency of the emulsion is quite thick, so it is better to apply it with a brush or roller..

To speed up the work, the use of a sprayer is allowed, but in this case it is necessary to dilute the emulsion to a liquid state with an ordinary solvent.

Specifications:

• texture - glossy;
• diluent type - solvent;
• drying time 6 hours.

TOP 3 best aerosol paints for metal

If you need to paint a small metal product, it is almost impossible to use a brush or roller. In this case, it is better to give preference to spray paints, which allow you to quickly process even figured metal products.

Eastbrand Monarca universal RAL

Universal acrylic paint, which is presented in a wide variety of colors, Therefore, it is suitable for processing a wide variety of metal products..

The wide scope of the emulsion is also explained by the fact that even wooden, concrete and plastic surfaces can be processed with it. In order for the paint layer to hold well, it is necessary to first clean the surface of dust and dirt.

The finished coating dries completely in just 1 hour, so it turns out perfectly even and smooth..

But in order for the paint layer to be truly durable, beautiful and bright, the product is applied in two layers. To do this, you need to wait until the first layer is completely dry, and only then apply the second.

The finished coating has a pleasant glossy sheen, but poorly masks defects and surface irregularities.

Specifications:

• base type acrylic;
• minimum consumption 173 ml/sq.m;
• drying time 1 hour.

Tytan Art of the color

This spray paint is a modern finish that designed not only for metal processing, but also for wood and plastic products.

Since the paint comes in a small spray can, applying the paint will not be difficult. Another feature of the tool is that it can be used for both indoor and outdoor work.

The composition of the paint includes special substances that increase the resistance of the finished coating to rust and aggressive environmental influences..

The paint is presented in a rich selection of colors, so it can be safely used to treat surfaces of any shade. The finished surface acquires a pleasant glossy sheen, and to make it brighter, it is better to apply the paint in two layers.

Painting work will not take much time, since each layer of paint dries in about 1 hour.

Painted surfaces or products, after complete drying of the emulsion, become resistant to rust and high temperatures.

Specifications:

• base type acrylic;
• maximum consumption 113 g/sq.m;
• drying time 1 hour.

MOTIP Deco effect chrome lacquer chrome

Relatively inexpensive, but high-quality paint, with which you can quickly process even small metal parts.

Since the product comes in a small spray can, painting is not a big deal.

The user simply shakes the can, remove the cap and spray the product onto the previously prepared surface..

The paint is presented in several colors: golden, silver and brown. For some users, this choice of colors seems insufficient, but for the processing of most products this is enough.

The finished coating has a pleasant glossy sheen, but to make the colors brighter, it is better to apply the paint in two layers..

To make the coating durable, before applying the next layer, you need to wait for the previous one to dry completely.

Specifications:

• base type acrylic;
• maximum consumption 320 ml/sq.m;
• drying time 24 hours.

TOP 3 best paints for metal 3 in 1 for rust

If the user does not have time to pre-treat and clean the surface, paints containing primers and special components that increase rust resistance should be preferred.

ECODOM for rust 3-in-1

Semi-gloss alkyd paint can be used as a self-coating for metal surfaces.

The finished coating performs not only a protective, but also a decorative function. But the main feature of the tool is that it can be applied to the surface without prior preparation.

The composition of the emulsion includes special components that provide an even painting even after the preliminary removal of rust residues..

But in order for the coating to be even, it is advisable to wipe the surface with a dry cloth to remove any remaining dust and dirt.

The paint is not suitable for other types of surfaces, and the special components that make up its composition prevent the further spread of rust.

The consistency of the paint is moderately thick, so it can be applied not only with a brush or roller, but also with a spray gun.

Another feature of the product is that it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, as the composition of the product includes components that increase the resistance of the coating to aggressive weather conditions.

Specifications:

• alkyd base;
• maximum consumption 7 kg/sq.m;
• drying time 1 hour.

Enamel KUDO for rust

High quality alkyd-based paint not only for processing metal surfaces.

It can also be used to paint wood and plastic. The composition of the product includes special components that prevent the further spread of rust and prevent the formation of new corrosion.

Since the paint is intended for both outdoor and indoor use, the manufacturer included in its composition substances that increase the resistance of the coating to aggressive weather conditions.

According to the degree of gloss, the paint belongs to semi-gloss, so the treated surface will have a pleasant sheen and will be able to mask minor surface defects.

Despite the fact that painting work can be started without prior preparation, it is advisable to wipe the surface from dust and clean it from visible contaminants.

Specifications:

• alkyd base;
• minimum consumption 520 ml/sq.m;
• drying time 4 hours.

DALI for rust 3-in-1

This paint is designed for protective and decorative treatment of metal products.. AT the composition of the product includes special components that allow painting directly on a rusty surface without prior cleaning.

But in order for the paint layer to be durable and of high quality, it is better to clean the processed material from dust and visible dirt with a dry cloth.

The consistency of the product is quite liquid, so the paint can be applied not only with a brush or roller, but also with a sprayer, without fear that it will become clogged. In order for the paint layer to turn out to be truly even and durable, it is better to apply it twice, waiting for each layer to dry completely.

In the future, the processed product will have resistance to corrosion, as well as resistance to high and low temperatures.

Specifications:

• alkyd base;
• maximum consumption 12 l/sq.m;
• drying time 3 hours.

Which firm to choose?

Most manufacturers of paints and varnishes also produce special paints for metal. We analyzed the assortment of the modern market and identified several of the most reliable manufacturers.

The rating of the best paints for metal according to the version of 2024-2025 includes the compositions of MAXIMA, Lakra, Tikkurila, Novbytkhim, Krafor, Hammerite, Kazachka, PANZER, Eastbrand Monarca, Tytan, EKODOM and DALI.

Customer Reviews

Useful video

From the video you will get an overview of the best paints for metal: